Resources for Religious Education Paul Taouk

A-Cross the World: An Exploration of Forty Representations of the Cross from the Worldwide Christian Church by Martyn Payne & Betty Pedley. (2004). Publisher: The Bible Reading Fellowship. ISBN: 1-84101-264-5

The cross is a key symbol of Christianity. This resource presents 40 crosses from around the world, and from various Christian traditions.

The book is divided into 2 parts. Part 1 presents each cross individually. The cross is named and illustrated. A bible passage that is related to the cross is presented with ‘wondering questions’. This is followed by information about the cross and a craft activity for the class. The information is succinct and easy to read. Some crosses presented include: the Celtic cross, the Taizé cross, and the San Damiano Cross.

Part 2 includes various resources that can be used while exploring the crosses. These include games, ‘ice-breakers’, prayers and quotations; as well as ideas on how to organise prayer celebrations and programs of work for a group of children.

• Ice-breakers and games are easy to follow and adapt for your group. They are designed for various ages and group sizes.
• Prayers, poems and quotations are presented. These can be used in prayer, liturgy or as stimulus for discussion with older children or adults.

The resource comes out of the Anglican tradition. It can be used to enhance various topics explored in religion.

• Exploring the symbol of the cross, particularly during Lent. What is the difference between a crucifix and a cross? Why are there different crosses? What does the cross mean?
• Exploring symbols and how they relate to the community. For example the Taizé cross and its meaning for those in the Taizé communities, or the Salvadorean cross and its meaning.
• The resource could also enhance studies of various Christian traditions.
• There are handy ideas in Part 2 for various religious themes. They can be adapted if the ‘cross’ is not the focus.

One of the appealing qualities of this resource is that it presents various religious images, showing the richness and diversity of the Christian traditions while also highlighting the unity of one symbol – the Cross.

The publisher and authors state that this resource is ideal for children 5years to 11years old (all primary aged children). It can also be adapted and used for teenagers and adult groups – in parent meetings, school staff meetings or with a group of catechists.

Ready-to-Go Scripture Skits…that teach serious stuff The Sequel by Michael Theisen. (2005). Publisher: Saint Mary’s Press. ISBN: 0-88489-896-2

Ready-to-Go Scripture Skits creatively presents Scripture stories to children. The author has taken ten stories from the Scriptures and created a funny skit for each. The skits provide an enjoyable way to introduce Scripture stories to children. They are useful for drama (English or creative arts).

However, the author does warn that the skits are not to be used alone. They are designed to engage children in the story before it is explored more deeply. It is particularly useful to read the introduction pages before using the skits. The author draws the readers attention to three ‘acts’: Engage, Examine and Explore.

Engage – presenting the skit to the class. This is designed to engage the children.

Examine – Here the Scriptures are examined. The actual text is read and related to life experience.

Explore – This section allows the children to go more deeply into the Scriptures. Discussions, questions and tasks help children apply the Scriptures to their lives, bringing the text alive for today. While some questions are very insightful some are of poor quality. Use your professional discretion.

Michael Theisen manages to create funny skits that often present the main points of the story. He uses lots of humour to engage the children. He also uses the three layered process to deepen children’s understanding.

While humour is a great tool for engaging children, a word of caution might be needed. Do children need Scripture stories to be humorous and embellished, or is it better to present children with the stories of Scripture simply? What am I trying to teach the children? How do I ensure the activities I have planned help children explore the Scriptures and respond appropriately? While the resource is useful and worthwhile, the teacher or catechist must make sure that RE lessons don’t become a superficial “Ready to go Skit”. The resource is useful for upper primary class children.